Sustainable-Travel Tips
Tips from our resident sustainability expert, Angie Kim.
As summer break approaches, many of us look forward to visiting and exploring new destinations during our time off. Here are some quick tips and reminders for traveling sustainably!
- Avoid flying if possible and carpool for longer road trips.
- Generally speaking, flying has a larger carbon footprint than driving or taking the train. If you’re traveling with friends or family, carpool to save emissions. If you do fly, you can calculate your flight’s carbon footprint and purchase carbon offsets. Many airlines have partnered with carbon offset programs so it is easier for you to calculate your footprint and purchase the proper credits when booking flights.
- Remember to pack reusable shopping bags and a reusable water bottle.
- Some states and countries have taxes on plastic bags or bottles, so this is also an easy way to save some money. However, be sure to research if your destination’s tap water is safe. If it is, you’ll also save money by not having to keep buying single-use plastic bottles.
- Research your destination’s waste management system beforehand.
- Different places have different waste management and recycling systems that can be confusing to outsiders. Knowing what bins to look for and where can help make sure you sort your waste most effectively.
- Walk, bike, or use public transport when possible.
- Walking is a great way of exploring new places and going off the beaten path. Additionally, some cities have bike-share systems and certain hotels rent out bikes. For longer distances, public transport is a sustainable option that has relatively low emissions per person when compared to taxis or rideshare services.
- Be mindful of your surroundings.
- When experiencing a new place or culture, be aware of the people, animals, and nature around you; do not participate in attractions that exploit people or animals. Always be respectful of local cultures and ecosystems.
- Shop and eat local.
- Patronize businesses that are run by local people and support the local economy. This will give you a more authentic experience while also cutting down the environmental costs of sourcing products from far away and supporting local cultures and traditions.
Wherever your summer travels take you, don’t forget to act responsibly and respectfully. These tips are only some of the ways that you make your trips near and far sustainable. Have a great summer!